Located in the scenic village of Sir Lowry’s Pass, about 60km from Cape Town, the Empress protea is making a difference in the lives of the local residents. This beautiful flower, usually exported abroad, has become the centerpiece of a fundraising initiative by Vergelegen wine estate in Somerset West, supporting Village Collaboration (VC), a nonprofit organization that aims to improve the standard of living in this small, impoverished community.
Challenges and Impact
Sir Lowry’s Pass village faces several challenges, such as inadequate education, high unemployment, substandard housing, and insufficient sanitation. Social issues like drug and alcohol abuse, gang membership, crime, and teenage pregnancies are also prevalent. However, VC’s efforts have made a significant difference in the community, and the partnership with Vergelegen to sell Empress protea is set to amplify their impact even further.
The Inspiration Behind the Initiative
VC director Cerné Couzis first encountered the Empress protea at a social event in Stilbaai and was captivated by its beauty. She decided to source and sell the flower to raise funds for the organization. Couzis discovered a protea farm near Riversdale and enlisted the help of Sue Steenkamp, Vergelegen Hospitality Manager, who welcomed the idea of supporting a well-run initiative that helps the community, as many staff members either reside or have close ties to the region’s inhabitants.
VC’s Achievements
Over the past 12 years, Wedderwill, a country estate next to Vergelegen, has supported child nutrition projects in Sir Lowry’s Pass village through the Wedderwill Charitable Trust. The Covid-19 pandemic heightened the need for assistance, leading the trust to expand its efforts via VC. Collaborating with multiple charitable organizations, VC provided meals for up to 3,000 people daily during the lockdown. The distribution was carried out by a local netball team, who delivered meals to elderly residents in their homes.
Presently, five soup kitchens serve 600-700 people daily, delivering hot meals to 25 elderly individuals. Additionally, two play schools provide nurturing environments for children, along with daily meals. To date, 24 adults have completed a three-month professional training course in frail care by the Procare Training Academy, an initiative sponsored by SOS Africa and hosted by VC.
In partnership with the Youth Employment Service, a joint effort between the government, businesses, and labor, VC has given 140 young people life-changing training and internships. According to Emery, VC’s influence has increased compassion and understanding within the village, particularly after witnessing the positive impact on the lives of young people participating in work training programs.
Empress Protea Sales
Vergelegen sells the Empress protea and other varieties at its Stables family restaurant and pop-up Nguni Café. Priced between R120 and R180 per bunch, all proceeds from the sales go directly to VC. Couzis expressed her gratitude to Vergelegen for showcasing the proteas and noted that customers are more than willing to buy when they know it supports a worthy cause.
A Symbol of Hope and Change
The vibrant Empress protea is a symbol of hope and change, bringing beauty and transformation to the lives of the people in Sir Lowry’s Pass village. The success of this initiative is a testament to the positive impact that private companies and nonprofits can make when they come together for a common goal.
